One of the many Thai traditions that have survived from the Ayutthaya era, dating back about 600 years. The boat races started as a means to prepare and boost the morale of the kingdom’s soldiers, as a way to develop their courage and strength by rowing. In the days of the Ayutthaya kingdom every Thai man was considered vital to the country’s defense. At that stage of history aggressive neighbors could start a war at any time.
Boats used during the festival are carefully chosen and made from trees that reflect the beliefs of a particular area. The boats are also rowed by the best trained and most fit of rowing crews.
During the months where water levels are at their highest points many areas in Thailand will host long boat racing festivals. They can be found in all regions of Thailand from August through November.
In this video we get a chance to see the races in Phimai. Events like this are a great way to experience Thai culture.
Traditional Long Boat Racing in Thailand - Phimai ...
Phra Pathom Chedi Night Market or Talat Torung Ong Phra Pathom Chedi, occupies the open grounds and surrounding areas in front of the towering Phra Pathom Chedi, Thailand’s largest and most revered Buddhist stupa located in the heart of Mueang Nakhon Pathom District.
This vibrant evening gathering transforms the temple precinct into a lively food bazaar each day as the sun sets offering an extensive selection of Thai street food, local specialties, desserts, fresh fruits, and occasional non-food items like clothing or small souvenirs. The market draws a steady crowd of locals, temple visitors, and day-trippers who come to eat, stroll, and enjoy the illuminated views of the historic chedi against the night sky, creating a relaxed yet bustling atmosphere that blends spiritual reverence with everyday provincial life.
The market has operated for around 60 years or more, earning recognition as one of the pioneering night markets in Thailand that helped popularize the concept of evening street food ...
Wat Sangkhatan, also spelled Wat Sangkhathan, stands as a serene Buddhist temple in the Bang Phai area of Mueang Nonthaburi district in Nonthaburi province.
Its origins trace back to the late Ayutthaya period, when it is believed to have been constructed as Wat Sarikho by skilled artisans influenced by the Lanka-style traditions from the Sukhothai era.
The temple’s ancient roots are evident in the stylistic features of its principal Buddha image, Luang Pho To, a large seated figure in the Mara-vijaya posture reflecting U-Thong artistic elements.
For centuries, the site lay largely abandoned amid local orchards, with only the weathered Buddha image remaining as a focal point for occasional veneration by nearby residents.
Over time, villagers would invite monks from surrounding areas to receive alms offerings there, a practice that gradually led locals to refer to the place informally as Wat Sangkhatan, meaning the temple of sangha alms-giving.
The modern chapter of its history began in 1968 when Luang ...
The Ratchada Train Night Market, also known as Talad Rot Fai Ratchada, has made a welcome return to its original home. It officially reopened on March 27, 2026, at the same vibrant spot behind the Esplanade shopping mall on Ratchadaphisek Road in Bangkok, right next to the Thailand Cultural Centre MRT station (Exit 3).
The market now operates daily from 5pm to 1am, bringing back the lively atmosphere of street food, shopping stalls, live music, and colorful tents that once defined this iconic night spot.
Years ago, this location was the beating heart of one of Bangkok’s most beloved night markets.
Launched around 2015 as the second branch of the popular Train Night Market concept, it quickly gained fame for its energetic vibe, vintage-inspired stalls, affordable street eats, fashion finds, and neon-lit walkways that drew both locals and tourists in droves.
Visitors loved wandering through the rows of tents for grilled seafood, trendy snacks, retro clothing, and even live performances, all within...
